Owner of Lighthouse Cinema proposes adding apartments to the top of the theater.

Local dentist and owner of the Lighthouse Cinema in Pacific Grove, Dr. Ayman Adeeb, is proposing to build four two-bedroom apartments on top of his building in a bid to keep the theater financially stable.

Story poles went up recently to show where the addition will be added, drawing the attention of neighbors. Adeeb says the apartments will be designed to blend in with the building, retaining the same Victorian architectural feel.

In addition, Adeeb is proposing rooftop decks for each unit with access to the upper level by interior staircases, says P.G. Community Development Director Jon Biggs.

Biggs says the new floor will comply with the 40-foot height limit in the commercial zoning district, as well as setback requirements—the units' walls will be pulled in from the exterior walls of the theater.

"We are seeking some additional clarifications about the project from the property owner so we do not have a specific date identified at which the project will be considered," Biggs says.

Since the project complies with zoning requirements, it will initially be heard by the Architectural Review Board, which will evaluate the compatibility of the proposal with the design of the building and the overall downtown character, Biggs adds.

Adeeb, who purchased the property last summer, says he's losing $30,000 a month in expenses and needs the added income rental units would bring.

"The plan is to be able to support the cinema and be able to pay our bills," Adeeb says.

He also believes that adding housing units will mean the theater will remain where it is in perpetuity.

"Whose going to tear down a building with four units?" he says. "It's guaranteed income from the top units to keep the theater for the community and the people."

If successful, the four units would also help the city meet its state Regional Housing Needs Allocation quota. Currently, the city is required to plan for 1,125 units to be potentially be added through 2031.

Adeeb developed 11 apartments just a block away behind the theater at Grand and Laurel avenues several years ago. He first built eight, then, in 2019, asked to add three additional affordable units, which were approved by the City Council.